I went down to Loyola on Saturday to take care of some things at the financial aid office (which of course, was closed. I love that whole Loyola having two financial aid offices on two different campuses that have different hours just to confuse people). But I digress, so, as I was driving into the city I noticed an unusual number of chicago police up and down Dearborn, complete with numerous paddy wagons. I thought it was a little strange but didn't think much of it until I neared the Watertower Campus where I was greeted by tons, and I mean tons, of police officers in full riot gear. I had to walk right through them and cross the street in order to get to Loyola and needless to say this was not the most comfortable situation. The sound of night sticks hitting boots and the visuals of Riot Shields and bullet proof vests did not make me particularly comfortable. I ducked inside the building and breathed a sigh of relief...unfortunately, a little too soon.

As I approached the elevator I was immediately stopped by a security guard giving me the third degree as to my destination. I told him. He seemed satisfied and allowed me to get on the elevator, which I rode up, discovered the financial aid office was closed, and promptly got back on. On my way back down to the lobby the elevator stopped on the third floor which I thought was a bit strange. To my dismay (again) I was immediately confronted with three of the largest men I've ever been face to face with decked out in the most astonishing amount of protective gear, night sticks, face shields etc. Tiny little me and three burly police officers who immediately began joking about how long it's been since they've been near a woman. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I was indeed forced to endure the rest of the elevator ride with these charming gentlemen. I don't think I've ever bolted out of an elevator so fast in my life.

I trekked back into the street where I finally discovered the cause for all the comotion....an anti-war protest. I walked, head down and fast as lighting through the line of cops now standing in what looked like some kind of interesting formation tapping on their nightsticks and appearing menacing and found solace inside my nice quiet car.

And this, all before noon on a Saturday. Another interesting story to add to the memory book.....